News Release

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Tattooed Prowler in Mission Hills NR14017pv

Mission Hills: LAPD detectives have released a composite sketch of a tattooed woman in her twenties who has trespassed into at least two homes in Mission Hills since Saturday. She sports a distinct tattoo of stars and a crescent moon next to her left eye.

“She’s pretty bold, walking into open garages during the day,” explained Lt. Paul Vernon, commanding officer of the Mission Detective Division. “If she’s unchallenged, she goes into the home and takes the first thing she sees.”

The last two incidents occurred this past Sunday, January 12, in the 15400 block of San Jose Street, and the 14500 block of Peach Avenue. When confronted by one resident, the prowler said she was looking for “Leslie,” a person who lived in the house. “That tells us the suspect may live in the neighborhood or is casing the homes she hits,” Vernon added.

Typically, these types of criminals are drug users looking for valuables to steal that they later sell or trade for drugs to maintain their habit.

The prowler may be also connected to a black Ford Explorer that was seen leaving the area of one burglary. Police officers have been directed to be vigilant for this woman in the area, especially among the several motels along the Sepulveda Corridor.

The woman is Hispanic, 5 feet 4 inches tall, with a medium to heavy build.

“Criminals who are willing to enter occupied homes present a special risk to residents,” Lt. Vernon said. “They are desperate for their addiction, tend to act impulsively and don’t consider consequences. The most important thing residents can do is to keep doors locked at all times, close garage doors, and be a good neighbor and witness.”

Anyone with information on this crime is urged to call Detective Sam Issa, Mission Burglary Unit, at (818) 838-9886. Anonymous tips can be called into Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477) or by texting 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Online tips may be placed at www.LAPDOnline.org by clicking on “webtips” and following the prompts.